Cotton
We’re all familiar with cotton—chances are, you’re wearing it right now. Cotton is one of the oldest fibers used for clothing and remains the most important non-food crop in the world. Today, it makes up about 24% of all textiles in the clothing industry, second only to polyester, which accounts for around 60%.
Cotton is loved for good reason: it’s breathable, absorbent, soft, durable, easy to care for, and comfortable year-round—keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, making it a great option for sensitive skin.
However, not all cotton is created equal.
What many people don’t know is that organic cotton and regular or conventional cotton are two different things.There’s a significant difference between conventional cotton and organic cotton. And within organic cotton, there’s another distinction—between certified and uncertified. Because of fraud in the supply chain, certification matters. That’s why we rely on GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), the world’s leading certification for organic cotton. GOTS ensures not only that the cotton is grown without harmful chemicals, but also that workers are treated ethically throughout the supply chain. Read more about GOTS here.
There’s plenty of debate about cotton—especially when it comes to organic versus conventional farming. At People N Planet, we believe an organic is a better path forward when compared to conventional cotton. Organic farming supports biodiversity, protects workers, conserves natural resources, reduces waste, and nurtures healthy soil—all of which are essential for people today and for the future of our planet.
We also welcome conversation and learning. If you come across an article or information you’d like to share, please email us at letstalk@peoplenplanet.com. We’d love to hear your perspective and continue the discussion. Keep an eye out for more from us on this important topic in future posts.
